“The best ability is availability.”
Jaguars cut Aaron Kampman, opening up playing time for rookie Andre Branch
Gene Smith's favorite words describe Aaron Kampman's situation perfectly. After signing a big free agent contract in 2010, Kampman has struggled to stay healthy in Jacksonville, giving the Jaguars very little pass rush. And on Thursday, the Jaguars cut ties with Kampman and his hefty contract.
The move comes a little more than a month after the Jaguars selected Andre Branch in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Branch has drawn solid reviews early in OTAs and will now be given extra snaps to prove his worth. Rookie defensive ends often struggle to make an instant impact, but if played in the proper situations, Branch has a chance to provide the Jaguars pass rush with a bit of a spark.
The Jaguars still have a few other options at defensive end, including Austen Lane, who is likely to get a chance to start given his experience and balance as a lineman. But Branch has some skills that the Jaguars can take advantage of. After the jump, check out what Dan Kadar had to say about Branch before the draft.
Branch was the leader of a talented Clemson defense in 2011. He’s one of the better speed rushers in this year’s draft, but doesn’t offer a lot as a power rusher. Because of that, he’ll need to be put in the right scheme that can take advantage of his abilities. He should be able to transition nicely to linebacker because of his range. Branch played the Bandit position at Clemson, which asked him to play with his hand down and in the two-point stance.
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